What does the term "local effect" refer to in medication?

The term "local effect" specifically refers to the action of a medication that is confined to the site where it is applied, rather than affecting the entire body or requiring systemic absorption to have an impact. This means that medications designed for local effects are used to treat conditions at the site of application, such as topical creams used for skin conditions or localized analgesics applied directly to areas of pain.

This localized action is particularly beneficial when targeting specific areas without the potential for widespread side effects that can occur with systemic medications. Medications that exert a local effect are often preferred when the goal is to minimize systemic exposure and therefore reduce the risk of side effects or drug interactions.

In contrast, other concepts like systemic effects refer to medications that affect the entire body after being absorbed into the bloodstream, which is not applicable in this context.